Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary pork chops into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds. Our Easy Caramel Apple Pork Chops are not just a meal – they're a flavor explosion that combines the savory richness of perfectly seared pork with the sweet, tangy embrace of caramelized apples. This recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant, but takes just 30 minutes to prepare!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pork chops
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: pork chops, apple cider, brown sugar, sliced apples, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet.
- Cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the apple cider and brown sugar. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the sliced apples and cinnamon to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the caramel apple mixture over the top. Allow the pork chops to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the skillet from heat.
- Serve the pork chops warm, topped with the caramelized apples and sauce. Enjoy your Easy Caramel Apple Pork Chops!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking and a perfect golden-brown crust.
- Pat Those Chops Dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the pork chops. This is the secret to achieving that beautiful, crispy exterior.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the pork chops in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly instead of steaming.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures juicy, tender meat every time.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Choose the Right Apples: Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for this recipe, as they hold their shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweet caramel sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
